15 Best Foods Indians Can Eat in Japan – A Tasty Guide for Desi Travellers

15 Best Foods Indians Can Eat in Japan — that’s the question many Indian travellers ask when planning a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun. Japan is full of beautiful places, rich culture, and amazing experiences, but Indian tourists often wonder, “What will I eat there?”

Many Indians worry about food when visiting Japan. After all, we are used to spicy sabzi, dal-chawal, roti, and masaledar curries. Japanese food is very different — mostly seafood, rice, and milder flavours.

But don’t worry! Japan has plenty of food options that Indians can enjoy — both vegetarian and non-vegetarian. And yes, you’ll even find proper Indian food in many cities!

Here are the 15 best food options for Indians in Japan:

1. Veg Ramen (Noodles Soup)

This is like our version of Maggi — hot soupy noodles with vegetables like cabbage, spinach, mushroom, and tofu. Many shops in big cities now serve veg ramen without any meat or fish. It’s warm, filling, and tasty.

2. Japanese Curry Rice (Karē Raisu)

You’ll be surprised to know that Japanese people love curry too! Their curry is not as spicy as Indian curry — it’s sweeter and thicker. But it’s still very tasty. You get it with rice and sometimes boiled vegetables or paneer-like tofu.

3. Vegetarian Sushi (Rice Rolls)

Sushi doesn’t always mean raw fish. You can try veg sushi like cucumber roll (kappa maki), avocado roll, or egg sushi (tamago sushi). It’s light, healthy, and worth trying once.

4. Indian Thali in Japanese Cities

In Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto and other big cities, you’ll find many Indian restaurants. Some even serve proper thali — with roti, sabzi, dal, rice, papad, and achaar. Places like Nishi-Kasai in Tokyo are full of Indian grocery shops and restaurants.

5. Veg Tempura (Fried Snacks)

This is the Japanese version of pakora or bhajiya. Vegetables like sweet potato, pumpkin, brinjal (baingan), or beans are dipped in batter and deep-fried. Very crunchy and tasty — especially with chutney-like dipping sauce.

6. Onigiri (Rice Balls)

Onigiri is like a Japanese stuffed rice ball, wrapped in seaweed. You’ll find them in every 7-Eleven or Family Mart store. Go for plain salt, pickled plum (like our anardana), or seaweed filling. A quick and cheap snack.

7. Tofu Sabzi (Tofu Dishes)

Tofu is like paneer, but softer and lighter. It is used in many Japanese dishes. You can get fried tofu, tofu with soy sauce, or tofu in soup. It’s good for vegetarians and has lots of protein.

8. Yakisoba (Fried Noodles)

These are stir-fried noodles — like Indian chowmein. Ask for veg yakisoba (without chicken or meat). Add some boiled egg or tofu if you like. It’s tasty and easy on the stomach.

9. Udon/Soba (Big Noodles)

Udon are thick noodles, and soba are made from buckwheat. They’re usually served in hot soup or with chutney-like dips. Choose veg toppings like mushroom or egg. Simple and satisfying.

10. Gyoza (Momos/Dumplings)

Gyoza is just like our momos — soft dumplings filled with stuffing. Many restaurants now offer veg gyoza, which are steamed or fried. A great evening snack!

11. Indian-Japanese Fusion Dishes

Some cafes in Japan now serve dishes like naan pizza, curry-flavoured rice bowls, or masala udon. It’s a mix of Indian taste with Japanese style — very interesting for food lovers.

12. Miso Soup (Light Soup)

This is a common side dish in Japan. It’s made with soybean paste and tofu. Ask for veg miso soup (without fish). It tastes like a light, salty dal and goes well with rice or noodles.

13. Japanese Pickles (Tsukemono)

Indians love achaar, right? Japan has its own version — pickled radish, cucumber, and plum. It tastes different from Indian achaar, but you’ll enjoy the tangy and salty flavours with plain rice.

14. Indian Sweets in Tokyo/Osaka

Craving gulab jamun or jalebi? Visit Indian stores in Japan — especially in Tokyo’s Nishi-Kasai or Osaka’s Namba area. You’ll find desi sweets, snacks, and even Haldiram packets!

15. Matcha Green Tea Ice Cream

Matcha is Japanese green tea in powder form. Their matcha ice cream is very famous. It’s slightly bitter but very refreshing. Indian tourists usually enjoy it after a meal.

Useful Tips for Indian Foodies in Japan

✅ Learn some basic Japanese words:

• Yasai = Vegetable

• Niku = Meat

• Tamago = Egg

• Sakana = Fish
  This helps you read menus or ask in restaurants.

✅ Use Google Maps or HappyCow App to find nearby veg-friendly restaurants or Indian places.

✅ Carry ready-to-eat food: Pack some Theplas, Poha packets, Maggi, or MTR ready meals — great for train journeys or remote areas.

✅ Visit Indian supermarkets: You’ll find rice, spices, masalas, atta, and even parle-G biscuits in Tokyo or Osaka Indian stores.

Final Thoughts

Japan may seem very different from India, but when it comes to food — you’ll find more options than you expect. Whether you’re a hardcore vegetarian, missing ghar ka khaana, or just want something spicy — there’s something for everyone.

So, don’t worry about your taste buds. Just go explore the beautiful country, try these tasty dishes, and enjoy best of both worlds — Desi flavours in Japanese style!